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Russia’s Global Anti-Corruption Efforts Under Scrutiny Amid Witch Hunt on Critics

Moscow - Russian authorities have launched a full-scale crackdown on civil society, independent media, journalists, political opposition, and other critics in the run-up to September’s parliamentary election, according to Human Rights Watch. The organization has accused the Kremlin of using “vicious and cynical” tactics to silence dissent.

Crackdown on Critics

Human Rights Watch documented a surge in attacks on human rights defenders, including the forced exile of many activists, journalists, and lawyers. The group’s Europe and Central Asia director, Hugh Williamson, said that the Russian authorities’ actions are “designed to crush dissent” and have resulted in the closure of several prominent human rights organizations.

Controversial Legislative Amendments

The report highlights the adoption of controversial legislative amendments since November 2020, which have expanded the applicability of laws targeting foreign agents and undesirables. The measures have also curbed freedom of assembly, encroached on online privacy and free expression, and given authorities broader grounds to imprison activists.

Harassment and Intimidation

In 2021, Russian authorities continued to use various tools to harass and intimidate human rights defenders, including expelling or forcing several prominent figures to leave the country. Courts ruled to close Memorial, one of Russia’s oldest human rights groups, in liquidation lawsuits filed by prosecutors. A prominent human rights lawyer, Ivan Pavlov, was forced to close his group, Team 29, and leave the country after authorities tried to disbar him.

Arrests and Imprisonment

The report also highlighted the arrest and imprisonment of Alexei Navalny, a vocal critic of President Vladimir Putin, following his return to Russia in January. The authorities have used Covid-19 as a pretext for banning public assemblies and prosecuted perceived organizers and participants. Social media companies have been pressured to censor online content related to protests and opposition voting campaigns.

Crackdown on Independent Media

The crackdown has also targeted independent media outlets and journalists, with several criminal cases opened against them on dubious charges. The number of individuals designated “foreign agent” has increased significantly since December 2020, and the number of organizations blacklisted as “undesirable” continues to rise.

Call for International Solidarity

Human Rights Watch has called for international solidarity with and support for human rights defenders in Russia, saying that the need for meaningful action has never been more pressing. The organization has also urged democratic leaders to do a better job of meeting national and global challenges and ensuring that democracy delivers on its promised dividends.

Conclusion

The Russian authorities’ crackdown on critics is a clear violation of human rights and a threat to democratic values. It is essential for international organizations, governments, and civil society to stand in solidarity with the victims of this crackdown and demand an end to these repressive measures.